**Discovering a Residence in London: My Journey and Reflections**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this timeframe may appear brief, I have gained a wealth of knowledge throughout this experience. London is a lively city, characterized not only by its varied housing choices but also by the energetic communities that populate it. Students have an abundance of accommodation options available to them, including student housing and private rentals. Choices range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can arrange in-person property viewings with ease, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to view listings online, evaluate amenities, and consider transport connections.
### Selecting a Location
During my accommodation search, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and, most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s efficient transportation system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates travel across these zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, costing up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I preferred walking shorter distances rather than using public transport. Thankfully, Oyster card options significantly lower commuting costs for students.
In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond central London, serving more remote zones. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the specific train provider. Residing in Central London comes with elevated living expenses, but I managed to reduce rent by sharing a room with a friend. I also chose intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds—an opportunity that would have been more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
### Closeness to Essentials
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Some of the most prevalent supermarkets in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical options. Being near essential shops, including pharmacies, saves time—especially during hectic exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Communities
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting, as the city boasts a rich tapestry of ethnic communities. Many international students gravitate towards areas that embody the culture and familiarity of their home nations. For instance, Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, presents a variety of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural gatherings. These are merely a few illustrations of the many diverse neighborhoods in London.
### Concluding Thoughts
The ideal place to live in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether seeking affordability, cultural resonance, or closeness to your university, the city provides a broad array of options. As you embark on your search for a home, welcome London’s diversity, discover its unique neighborhoods, and relish the thrill of living in one of the world’s most vibrant cities.